Foster care is a journey filled with challenges, joy, heartbreak, and immense love. Many caregivers step into this space with good intentions but often find themselves unprepared for the realities they face. If you’re considering fostering or are fostering, understanding…
In a recent episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Courtney Williams and Travis Vangsnes welcomed Jeanette Yoffe, a seasoned psychotherapist who herself was in foster care and later adopted. With over 20 years of experience, Jeanette offers a compassionate…
Are you contemplating foster care but unsure how it impacts your family? Or perhaps you’re seeking ways to support foster families beyond opening your home? In this blog, we explore foster care through the inspiring story of foster care influencer,…
Many assume that foster care is solely a system of loss, upheaval, and trauma. And while all these factors are ever present and difficult realities, they don’t tell the whole story for each individual or for the system itself. For…
In a recent episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Brian Mavis, Courtney Williams, and Travis Vangsnes answered recent listener submitted questions. This was a great way to delve into some of the complexities and emotional nuances of foster care.…
The things you do for yourself are gone when you are gone, but the things you do for others remain as your legacy. – N.D. Kalu In a recent episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Courtney Williams and Travis…
We can’t protect our children from every evil in the world, but what we can do is protect them from a specific group of people. — Krista Ritchie In a recent episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Brian Mavis and Courtney William engaged in a…
If you’re considering becoming a foster parent, one of the biggest milestones on the journey is the home study. Just hearing the phrase can make people nervous. However, a home study isn’t designed to intimidate you. It’s designed to prepare,…
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” – African proverb In the realm of foster care, where challenges abound and resources are often stretched thin, WindShape Homes shines as a testament to…
Earlier this year the I Belong Project™ traveled to Memphis, TN for a powerful, hope-filled day we won’t soon forget. What unfolded was more than a film shoot — it was a day filled with belonging, dignity, and possibility. Meet 16 kids in need of adoption.
We invite you to attend our Virtual Q&A Panel — a safe, welcoming space to hear real stories from local foster and adoptive parents, child welfare experts and our staff to ask your questions. The goal is to share accurate information and authentic stories. Join us during National Adoption Awareness Month for a special adoption-focused panel. The event is free, RSVP at the link below.
This post is part of our podcast series on Go Upstream. In Episode 1, we set the stage with the heart behind the book and the vision for a world where every child belongs. “It is easier to build strong…
